Meaning of Word
Aggressive refers to behavior that is forceful, hostile, or attacking, often with the intention to dominate or confront others.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Showing a readiness to attack or confront, often in a forceful or violent manner.
- Characterized by a bold, assertive, or combative attitude.
- Acting in a manner that is aggressive in order to achieve goals, typically involving competition or dominance.
- (In business or marketing) characterized by vigorous or proactive efforts to gain advantages.
History and Origin
The word “aggressive” comes from the Latin “aggressus,” meaning “to approach, attack, or undertake,” which is the past participle of “aggredi,” meaning “to approach” or “to attack.” The term has been used since the early 19th century to describe actions involving force, and it has since broadened to include both physical and metaphorical attacks, such as in business or personal relationships.
Detailed Explanation
Aggressive can describe both physical behavior (such as an aggressive attack) and psychological or social actions (like aggressive negotiation tactics). It can be used to describe someone who is hostile or combative, eager to assert dominance or control, or simply assertive to the point of being forceful. Aggression can be both negative (involving harm or confrontation) or positive (involving strong effort or determination, such as in competitive contexts). Aggressive behavior often triggers a defensive or opposing response from others.
Example Sentences
- His aggressive approach to sales helped him exceed his targets.
- The dog became aggressive when it felt threatened.
- She gave an aggressive response to the criticism, defending her ideas fiercely.
- The company adopted an aggressive marketing strategy to outpace competitors.
- His aggressive driving made other drivers nervous on the road.
- The politician’s aggressive rhetoric won him support from his base but alienated others.
- The athlete’s aggressive training regimen helped him win the championship.
- The aggressive tactics of the protesters led to clashes with the police.
- An aggressive stance in negotiations may intimidate others but can lead to better deals.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Hostile – Showing opposition or unfriendliness, often involving conflict or aggression.
- Combative – Ready or eager to fight or argue, similar to aggressive.
- Forceful – Strong and assertive, often in a way that can be overpowering or aggressive.
- Assertive – Self-assured and confident, sometimes to the point of being aggressive.
- Antagonistic – Showing active opposition or hostility, similar to aggressive behavior.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Violent – Involving extreme physical force, often linked to aggressive behavior.
- Fierce – Intense and aggressive in nature, especially in competitive situations.
- Dominant – Seeking control or superiority, often through aggressive means.
- Provocative – Likely to stir up reactions or conflict, often seen as part of aggressive actions.
- Intimidating – Frightening or making others feel fearful, often as a result of aggressive behavior.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Aggressive behavior – Actions that are forceful or hostile in nature.
- Aggressive tactics – Strategies used in competition or conflict that are bold and confrontational.
- Aggressive marketing – A proactive and vigorous approach to promoting products, often involving intense competition.
- Aggressive negotiation – A method of bargaining where one party seeks to dominate or control the outcome.
- Aggressive driving – A driving style characterized by speed, close following, and confrontational actions.
Antonyms
- Passive – Lacking in action or aggressiveness, calm or submissive in nature.
- Calm – Free from agitation or violent activity, opposite of aggressive.
- Gentle – Kind and soft in manner, unlike aggressive behavior.
- Submissive – Willing to yield or defer to others, not aggressive.
- Peaceful – Free from conflict or aggression, involving harmony and calm.